Seattle Public Schools

Course Progressions

High School Math Progressions and Course Catalog

Example High School Math Progressions

For High School Students Enrolling in Algebra 1 in 9th Grade

These charts below show the different math course progressions that students might take over the four years of high school if they start 9th grade in Algebra 1. The charts are divided into three categories: Example Standard Progressions, Example Acceleration Progressions, and Example Alternative Progressions.

Note: Some students are accelerated in their math course progression when they enter high school and will not need further acceleration in order to reach the most advanced math coursework available.

Standard Progressions – Examples

These options are standard course progressions for students completing their high school math sequence. These progressions are available at all comprehensive high schools.

Accelerated Math Progressions – Examples

These progressions are for students who have identified a desire to access Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Higher Level as part of their High School and Beyond Plan. To gain a single-year acceleration, students can take two math courses (specified below) concurrently. Not all progressions are available at every school. Contact your school to determine what is available.

Note: High school students may apply to take an out-of-district course for HS credit if it provides an opportunity to reach advanced coursework that would not be accessible otherwise, per SPS School Board Policy 2024. Please contact your principal for approval.  Students who enter high school beyond Algebra 1 do not need further acceleration to reach AP or IB math courses by their senior year.

Note: Taking two math courses during the same school year (or doubling-up math courses) will require enrolling in the second math class in place of an elective.

Alternative Math Progressions – Examples

These progressions allow for adjustments to a student’s High School and Beyond Plan, for interest-based math enrollment, and plan for successes after graduation. Not all progressions are available at every school. Contact your school to determine what is available.

High School Math Course Catalog

This is a comprehensive list of the courses available in the SPS Math Course Catalog. Please refer to the Math Course Sequence documents to view math course trajectories:

Contact schools for specific course offerings.